NRL season preview: Canberra Raiders 'were a bit fat last year' says Brad Fittler but now back in shape for 2018

In the lead up to the 2018 NRL season, Nine commentator and former player Brad Fittler says he has been most impressed by the Canberra Raiders' dedication to becoming a fitter, trimmer and faster unit.

The Raiders finished the 2017 season 10th on the ladder, a significant slip following their top four finish in 2016. Fittler suggested they could be due for a rebound season in 2018, and their improved fitness levels will go a long way in achieving that.

"The one thing I did notice is they've all gotten fit," Fittler said.

"They were all a bit fat I thought towards the back end of last year.

"BJ [Leilua] and Junior Paulo and a few of the fellas they were all carrying a bit of weight."

Photo: AAP

Coach Ricky Stuart did comment on the achievements of the team as the countdown begins to their round one game of the new season against the Gold Coast Titans. Stuart said the team had already reached new personal bests in their physical conditioning tests in pre-season training.

Fittler believes the biggest frustration for the team would have been the injury to Josh Hodgson while playing for England at the Rugby League World Cup. The Raiders vice captain suffered an ACL injury in the semi-final against Tonga and did not play the final.